In the CCTV world, the Frames per Second (FPS) question not only effects the video quality of a recording, but the cost effectiveness of a system, as well. Many people come in looking for a “real-time,” or 30 FPS display/record system, but then compromise for a 15 FPS counterpart to save on expenses.
Truth be told, the visible difference between a 15 and 30 frames per second video isn’t terribly drastic. When you start dropping down to 7.5 FPS, on something like a 4 Channel DVR that only records at 30 FPS (total), you can really start to notice the choppiness, though. For the most part, you don’t see many systems out there that record below 7.5 frames per second by default – at that point the choppiness is highly visible and you don’t get a good look at the subjects in the frame.
View Frames per Second Comparison Video
We created the above video to demonstrate the different FPS values in a controlled environment. The subject is recorded at 3, 8 , 15 and 30 frames per second, on the same DVR and camera, walking outside the building. We hope this video helps you determine which level of recording you need for your next system.
Don’t forget to let us know your thoughts on FPS values & recording DVRs – is it worth it to skimp on FPS, or do you go big or go home with 30 every time?
#1 by Autumn on November 13, 2009 - 12:46 pm
Interesting. It really is hard to tell the difference between 15 and 30 FPS.
#2 by Jeremy on November 13, 2009 - 1:08 pm
Guys, you just keep providing great information that is relative to this industry and helps us all become better consumers. Thanks for all your hard work!!
#3 by Ken on November 13, 2009 - 4:04 pm
Higher FPS are always more desirable, but keep in mind that lower FPS take up less hard drive space.
#4 by Danny on November 13, 2009 - 6:28 pm
I’m considering an IP surveillance system. Would 30FPS be something I should consider if I have bandwidth and resolution to consider?
#5 by Georgie on November 16, 2009 - 4:13 pm
Normally, I try to go for real-time display and record, but when my clients are on a budget, I will sacrifice the difference between 15 and 30 FPS for better-quality cameras.
#6 by Norman on November 16, 2009 - 5:00 pm
Georgie, you have a great point here. From the video, I don’t see that the 15FPS is all that much of a difference. If I spent the extra dollars on better resolution cameras, I think this would be a wise sacrifice.
#7 by Luke on November 16, 2009 - 5:38 pm
When I bought my DVR I used this video to help make my mind up works great. Thanks guys.
#8 by Theodore on November 16, 2009 - 10:00 pm
I can only agree 100% with Jeremy’s comment from 11/13 at 1:08 pm. Keep up th great work.
#9 by Kelley W. on December 22, 2009 - 10:26 am
After watching this comparison, I think the 15 FPS would be fine for most of my residental customers, but for my commercial jobs, I still feel thay neeed the 30 FPS especially in the retail industry!